Wild & Scenic Rivers Backcountry Permits
Multi-day river expeditions on America's protected wild and scenic rivers. Managed by various federal agencies including BLM, USFS, and NPS.
About Wild & Scenic Rivers Permits
Wild and Scenic Rivers offer multi-day adventures through some of America's most remote canyons. River permits are managed by various agencies (BLM, USFS, NPS) depending on the waterway. The Grand Canyon Colorado River permit is considered one of the hardest permits to get in the country. Commercial trips are an option but private permits offer flexibility.
Best Time to Visit
River seasons vary dramatically. Desert rivers like the Grand Canyon run year-round. Northern rivers like the Selway have narrow windows (typically May-July). Water levels and temperatures dictate optimal timing.
Signature Experiences
The most sought-after permits in Wild & Scenic Rivers
GC Rafting
10/10“Raft through nearly two billion years of Earth's history, past 47 major rapids, hidden waterfalls, and ancient civilizations—accessible only by river.”
Middle Fork
9/10“Raft 100 miles through America's largest wilderness, dropping nearly 3,000 feet through over 100 rapids, natural hot springs, and canyons deeper than the Grand Canyon.”
Smith
9/10“Multi-day river adventure through Colorado Rivers.”
Parks & Wilderness Areas
Browse permits by location (3 locations)
Idaho Wild Rivers
Premier whitewater through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness....
Pacific Northwest Rivers
Wild and scenic rivers of Oregon and the Pacific Northwest....
Colorado Plateau Rivers
Desert river adventures through Utah and Colorado....
Search Wild & Scenic Rivers Permits
Find specific permits or browse all 16 permits
GC Rafting
LotteryPopularColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Middle Fork
LotteryPopularIdaho Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Smith
LotteryColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Main Salmon
LotteryIdaho Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Selway
LotteryIdaho Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Yampa
LotteryColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Rogue
LotteryColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Rogue
LotteryPNW Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Hells Canyon
LotteryPNW Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Desolation
LotteryColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Gates of Lodore
LotteryColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Smith River
LotteryPNW Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Lower GC
LotteryColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
San Juan
ReservationColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Owyhee
First-Come, First-ServedColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Deschutes
ReservationColorado Rivers · Wild & Scenic Rivers
Explore Other Regions
Planning a bigger trip? Check out permits in other areas.
Wild & Scenic Rivers Permit FAQ
How many backcountry permits does PermitSnag track in Wild & Scenic Rivers?
PermitSnag tracks over 16 backcountry permits across Wild & Scenic Rivers, including day-use permits, overnight permits, thru-hike entries, and specialized permits like canyoneering and river access.
What are the most popular permits in Wild & Scenic Rivers?
The most competitive Wild & Scenic Rivers permits include GC Rafting, Middle Fork, Smith. These permits often sell out immediately when released.
How do I get notified about Wild & Scenic Rivers permit cancellations?
Sign up for PermitSnag to receive instant alerts when Wild & Scenic Rivers permits become available due to cancellations. Our system monitors availability 24/7 and notifies you immediately.